As we celebrate Volunteer Month, I am sure I can speak for us all when I say how grateful we are for the volunteers in our church family.

Whether it is setting out chairs, welcoming people, serving teas and coffees, leading ministries, or working behind the scenes, every act of service helps create a church where people can encounter Jesus and experience His love.

We also recognise that volunteer management is not always easy. Many churches face the challenge of limited volunteer numbers, and burnout can be a real concern when the same people carry much of the responsibility. Recently, Gavin explored this topic at Gas Street's The Engine Room conference, looking at how churches can move beyond simply filling rotas and develop a healthy culture where volunteers are envisioned, valued, equipped, and empowered to serve effectively. Drawing on his experience as a Church Manager, he gave some practical insights on building sustainable volunteer teams that support the mission of the church. You can watch his talk here: https://youtu.be/tpXej7Sar0o

"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." - 1 Peter 4:10

What have we been up to recently?

PODCASTS

• In this podcast, Gavin is joined by Mark Jones from Edward Connor Solicitors to discuss some of the key employment law changes coming in April and October 2026.
• Changes in churches can be difficult to navigate- here Gavin speaks with Rachel Slough who shares practical wisdom and honest insight into why change can feel challenging, how leaders can guide people well through transition, and the importance of communication, culture and trust along the way.

DOCUMENT TEMPLATES

We've also released a few new resources:

• Sermon Note Template- These are some templates to try and help make your Sunday morning meeting more manageable for the child
• Church Planting Operational Guide- This is our first resource available for purchase! When planting a church there are many things that need to be considered, planned and actioned operationally in order for a church plant to be established. This guide has been written collaboratively by members of The Church Office team looking at the legal, financial, policy and procedure, building use and operational support.

We also have updated a number of our existing documents including:

• Volunteer Role Description Pack- Role descriptions can be really helpful in giving volunteers an idea of what is involved in their specific role. This editable pack includes a volunteer code of conduct too.
• Security Team Member- Volunteer Role Description- This Security Team Member role description is designed to give members of the security team a clearer idea of what this role entails.
• Code of Conduct- Here is an example Code of Conduct for churches. Please note, this is only an example and we'd recommend adapting this template so that it fits your church context more specifically.

PRIZE DRAW

We are incredibly grateful for the amazing response we've already received for Mind the GAP.

To celebrate the response, everyone who signs up during this month - along with those who have already registered - will automatically be entered into a special prize draw, where one lucky participant will win a free Good Church Management Course. No extra steps are needed - once you register for the conference, you'll automatically be entered into the draw.

We'd love to have you with us!

North Conference Sign Up: https://thechurchoffice.charitysuite.com/events/dubvzqt3

South Conference Sign Up: https://thechurchoffice.charitysuite.com/events/9rkz9du2

If there are other documents or podcast topics you would find helpful — or if there is anything you would value prayer or support with — please don't hesitate to contact us at info@thechurchoffice.co.uk.

Grace to you,

Gavin and The Church Office Team

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